CAREER EXPLORATION
What is job shadowing?
Observing a professional while they perform their work.
What should a Cadet consider when deciding what type of post-high-school path may fit them?
Strengths, interests, aptitudes, goals, and priorities.
Name one factor a Cadet should consider when comparing schools.
Cost, location, size, academics, programs, facilities, etc.
What is a transcript?
An official record of classes taken and grades earned.
Why should Cadets use an application tracker?
To organize schools, requirements, deadlines, and tasks.
What does COA mean?
Cost of Attendance.
What is a grant?
Gift aid that generally does not need to be repaid.
What should you do before an interview?
Research, prepare, plan logistics, and prepare questions.
What is an informational interview?
A conversation with a professional to learn about a career field
What are aptitudes?
Natural abilities or talents that may make certain tasks or fields a good fit.
Why shouldn't rankings determine your entire decision?
Rankings do not tell you whether the school is personally the right fit
What does “test-optional” mean?
Students can decide whether to submit SAT/ACT scores under that school's policy.
Which application type is generally binding?
Early Decision.
Name two expenses that can be included in COA besides tuition.
Room, board, fees, books, supplies, transportation, or personal expenses.
What is merit aid?
Financial assistance based on achievement.
Name one item you might bring to an intervi
Resume, transcript, portfolio, notebook, or prepared questions.
What is an internship?
A short-term opportunity to gain experience in a professional field
Why is self-reflection important before choosing a pathway?
It helps Cadets connect their abilities, interests, and goals to realistic options.
What should a Cadet do after a campus visit?
Record likes, dislikes, questions, and items requiring additional research.
What is holistic admission?
Admission that considers a broad range of factors beyond grades and test scores.
Which application type is generally non-binding?
Early Action.
What is Net Price?
The amount a student/family expects to pay after financial aid.
What is work-study?
A program that allows eligible students to work, often on campus, to help pay educational expenses.
What should you do if you don't know the answer to an interview question?
Respond honestly and professionally rather than making up an answer.
What is an apprenticeship?
On-the-job training under an experienced professional, commonly in a trade
What does “fit” mean when choosing a school or career pathway?
How well an option matches a person's needs, goals, interests, and circumstances.
Why should Cadets research more than one option?
Comparing options helps them make an informed decision.
What is formulaic admission?
Admission relying primarily on numerical measures such as GPA and/or test
What is Rolling Admission?
: Applications are reviewed as they are received rather than waiting for one common decision date
What tool can help estimate a school's financial aid and net cost?
Net Price Calculator.
What is the FAFSA used for?
It is used to apply for federal student financial aid and help determine financial-aid eligibility.
What is the ultimate goal of the Post-Secondary Action Plan?
Turn research and decisions into specific, realistic next steps.
On-the-job training under an experienced professional, commonly in a trade
It provides realistic information about the work and can help determine whether the career is a good fit.
Why shouldn't two Cadets necessarily choose the same post-high-school path?
Their interests, abilities, goals, finances, and circumstances may be different.
What is the difference between reputation and fit?
Reputation describes how others view an option; fit describes how well it meets the Cadet's needs and goals.
Name three application components other than grades that may strengthen an application.
Essays, extracurricular activities, recommendations, leadership, employment, etc.
Why can missing a deadline be a serious problem?
The student may lose the opportunity to apply, receive priority consideration, or qualify for certain aid or programs.
Why should students compare Net Price instead of looking only at sticker price?
The sticker price may not represent what the student actually pays after financial aid.
What is one major warning sign of a scholarship scam?
Someone demands payment to find or guarantee scholarships.
A Senior Cadet says, “I know what I want to do after graduation, but I haven't researched schools, requirements, costs, or deadlines.” What is missing from the Cadet's mission
r: The Cadet needs to move from an idea to an informed plan by researching options, comparing fit, identifying application requirements and deadlines, planning how to pay, and establishing specific next steps.